The Dishes-(s/t--No. 89 Records)
The Dishes, out of Chicago, Illinois, play
unpretentious, guitar-driven punk rock. The band consists of 2 chicks on
guitar who trade lead vocals, while a chick bassist, and a guy drummer
provide the rhythm thunder. Live, they remind me why I dig this type of
music: it's loud, it's raw, and usually fast. At times, they sound like
they've just stumbled upon their instruments, but whatever mastery they may
appear to lack, is more than made up for with intensity and enthusiasm. The
Dishes self-titled cd, on No. 89 Records, is 13 songs of power punk, and
includes a cover of the Urinals, "I'm a Bug." Nice. If this band doesn't
make you want to jump up and down, you are in a coma. Buy it.
Nerves-(New Animal-Thrill Jockey)
With their guitar-forward sound, Chicago's
Nerves are at times reminiscent of Gang of Four. The Nerves play with a
ferociousness, seemingly attacking their instruments. Guitarist Rob Datum's
haunting voice, --think David Yow without the venom-- hangs in the air,
accompanied by Seth Skundrick's powerful bass lines, and Elliot Dicks'
rapid-fire drumming. As a result, there are no wasted sounds; every note is
maximized. Maybe that's the Nerves' secret. As a trio, they've trimmed away
all the fat, and the listener is rewarded with a lean, muscular sound.
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